Load-Velocity Profiling (LVP) is a sprint training method that measures how an athlete’s sprint velocity decreases as resistance (load) increases. This relationship is linear, individual to each athlete, and helps coaches build individualized sprint programs by choosing the exact loads to achieve the desired velocity decrement (Vdec), instead of guessing with arbitrary resistance.
Why Load–Velocity Profiling Matters in Sprint Training
Every athlete has a unique LVP based on their top speed and ability to sprint against resistance. The LVP allows you to individualize resisted sprints with precision by targeting specific velocity decrements (Vdec) (e.g., 10%, 25%, 50%), telling you the exact load each athlete needs to achieve that specific Vdec.
Even within one demographic, like high school athletes who usually have larger training groups and a need for more general training, loading for individual velocity decrements can vary by 30–40%. Looking at the average versus the minimum and maximum that an athlete in that group could need.
No more guessing, choose the Vdec and consequent training load that aligns with the desired adaptation.
How to Build a Load–Velocity Profile (LVP)
Use 3 loads: light, medium, and heavy.
3kg is an appropriate light load for all athlete and doubles as a Force-Velocity Profile. The heavy load is relative to the age group. And the medium load splits the difference.
Use the right distances:
-Light load → 30 yards
-Medium load → 25 yards
-Heavy load → 20 yards
Then make small adjustments to the distances, if needed, to ensure the athlete reaches max velocity on each rep.
Best Practices for Collecting Load-Velocity Profiling
In summary, the best practices are things to keep in mind to ensure the athlete is in the best position to hit the highest velocity possible at the beginning of each rep.
1. Familiarization: have athletes practice heavier resisted sprints beforehand. Running with 15–25kg is a skill and there is a learning curve
2. Rest: at least 2.5 minutes between reps ensures maximum recovery
3. "Peaking out": Ensure the athlete hits top speed on each rep. If the graph shows they were still getting faster, add 5 more yards and retest.
4. Reliability: target an R² > 0.985 (above 0.95 is acceptable)
5. Limited space: if your facility only has 20 yards, for example, pick a heavier starting load where the athlete can still hit top speed within that distance, then use well-spaced medium and heavy loads from there
Final Thoughts
Once you have reliable LVP, use it to assign loads based on the Vdec appropriate for the goal of that session. No more guessing like "this feels heavy enough." (If you're new to velocity decrements, start here)
Collect your own profiles, experiment, and learn by doing — with coworkers, interns, or your athletes.
LVP is a simple yet powerful way to personalize sprint training and track progress over time.
🎥👉 Full video: Load-Velocity Profiling How-to and Best Practices
Published: October 3, 2025